Sam’s Club plans to leverage the NCAA NIL agreement to help college athletes make some money from their name, image and likeness in a program that uses social media to reach designated audiences.
Sam’s start-up student-athlete team is:
- Samieryah Bradwell, Women’s Track & Field, University of Central Florida
- Sam Pinckney, Football, Georgia State University
- Samantha Sakti, Gymnastics, University of California at Los Angeles
- Sam Estrada, Women’s Soccer, Southern Methodist University
The program represents the first time Sam’s Club has leveraged TikTok to launch a contest, the retailer noted, adding that the social media platform is an ideal way for Sam’s Club to reach a younger demographic in an engaging way. It sets up Sam’s Club to recognize hard-working athletes while connecting to the followers and fans of each as well as selectively targeting consumers who might relate to them.
“College athletics is a natural fit for Sam’s Club, which offers game day essentials no matter the sport including tailgating must-haves for your game day spread, seasonal collegiate gear, electronics and more,” said Megan Crozier, Sam’s Club chief merchant in announcing the program. “Supporting these athletes gives us a chance to connect with members in a new way, support students and rally behind many under-represented collegiate sports. It’s a win-win.”
